Run raises $20,000

DANIELSON — More than 150 runners “Tackled the Trail” Oct. 18, raising $20,000 for The Quinebaug Valley Community College Foundation. The inaugural Tackle the Trail race covered 19.4 miles on the old Air Line Trail from Pomfret to Willimantic.

Thirty-two teams consisting of three to five runners and 15 individuals were registered for the race. Andrew Gasiorek of Pomfret Center, crossed the finish line on Milk Street in Willimantic in 2:14:27 averaging a 6:57 pace. QVCC Interim Director of Community Engagement Monique Wolanin was the first women to cross the finish line in 2:37:27. The first relay team to complete was Into the Wild, finishing in 2:32:29, also good for the top men’s team. First place for women’s teams was Brooklyn Running Club II with a time of 3:03:32. Putnam Bank captured first place for coed teams with a time of 2:44:58. First place in the under-13 division was Team PCS (Pomfret Community School) with a time of 3:02:29.  Highlights for the runners included the Air Line Trail itself, the volunteers who encouraged and cheered them on, and the excellent post-race party at the Willimantic Elks.

According to Wolanin, one of the race organizers, support from the local community was exceptional, and she expressed thanks to the sponsors: Putnam Bank, Savings Institute Bank & Trust, The Center for Bone & Join Care, The Citizens National Bank, Gates Automotive Group, Quiet Corner Family Practice, Jewett City Savings, Weiss & Associates, UNFI, WINY radio and WILI Radio (sponsored by White Water Partnership). Wolanin and her committee are looking forward to planning Tackle 2015.